Master Changan becomes the first automaker in Pakistan to achieve volume exports
Continuing its tradition of industry firsts, Master Changan Motors Ltd (MCML), a joint venture with Changan International, has successfully exported the first batch of 14 Oshan X7s to Kenya for onward sales in the Kenyan and Tanzanian markets. Last year, the first sample unit was also exported to a country in the Oceania region.
Marking its position as the first company to become Pakistan's volume exporter of technologically advanced, ‘Made in Pakistan’ SUVs, the Oshan X7 will be the first SUV to be introduced in an international market. This significant milestone comes on the 10th anniversary of the CPEC, showcasing the profound economic cooperation between Pakistan and China.
An export ceremony was held in Karachi. During the event, Master Changan’s CEO, Mr. Danial Malik, commented, “We are taking our next major step to achieve our vision of making Master Changan part of Changan’s global vehicle supply chain under the ‘Vast Ocean Plan’, while putting Pakistan on the map for producing and exporting high quality vehicles to the world. Kenya and Tanzania are one of the many countries where Master Changan Motors plans to leave its mark, as we look to expand our export volumes.”
The ceremony saw the attendance of the Chief Guest, Mr. Asad Rehman Gilani, Secretary of Industries and Production; Mr. Asim Ayaz, General Manager of Policy from the Engineering Development Board; Rizwan Bhatti, CEO of PIDC; and Asad Altaf, Corporate Head of HBL.
Earlier in the year, on 18th April, Mr. Zhu Huarong, Chairman of Changan Automobile, made a pivotal announcement at the 2023 Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition. He unveiled the ‘Vast Ocean’ plan, a strategy devised to expedite the company's international expansion and elevate it to a world-class brand. Changan Automobile plans to invest US$10 billion in foreign markets, concentrating on products with intelligent low-carbon core technology. Changan aims to broaden its global presence to regions including Europe, America, the Middle-East, Africa, Asia Pacific, and the CIS, hoping to penetrate 90% of global markets by 2030. As Changan’s RHD manufacturing hub, Master Changan Pakistan is poised to play a significant role in Changan's ‘Vast Ocean’ plan, catering to RHD markets worldwide.
The export of ‘Made in Pakistan’ vehicles hinges on the Federal Government’s policies which seek to champion and incentivize the automotive industry. To facilitate this, Pakistan’s automotive sector has already presented proposals aiming to ensure the long-term viability of auto exports. Danial Malik added, “We sincerely thank our government for the auto export policy 2021-2026. However, the auto industry needs the government to create policies that increase volumes locally which in turn will improve economies of scale, support deeper localization and encourage automakers to improve their global competitiveness.”
The Oshan X7 takes the lead as the largest SUV in its segment, boasting impressive dimensions. It achieves an efficient fuel average of 14-15 kmpl through Pakistan’s only 1.5L turbo-charged engine that goes from 0-100 km/h in just 8.23 seconds. Going beyond its remarkable performance, the Oshan X7 showcases a contemporary design, lavish interior, and excels with state-of-the-art features such as ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control), AEB (Autonomous Emergency Braking), FW (Forward Collision Warning), and the luxury of heated and vented seats. Notably, it stands out as the sole vehicle in its class to offer a versatile 5/7 seat layout, providing adaptability to different preferences and needs.
For more information and to download the brochure visit: https://www.changan.com.pk/oshan-x7